A root canal appointment is among one of the most anxiety-producing procedures for many patients. But after going through treatment, most patients experience immediate relief from pain and discomfort. The most common source of fear for a root canal in Dallas, TX, tends to be the not knowing of how the procedure works. Dentists use local anesthetic to help numb the area, so you’re not likely to experience much pain during the process. The more you know about the root canal procedure, the more confidence you can have in seeking the treatment you need.
What is a Root Canal?
Our teeth are connected to our gums and jaws through the root tips. The roots of our teeth help keep them in place and provide support while chewing. Teeth typically have one or four roots (depending on the type of tooth), and each can suffer from infection or damage. Roots contain a series of nerves and blood vessels, connected to what’s known as the dental pulp. When the pulp becomes infected, a root canal appointment is crucial for preserving the tooth.
What Happens With an Infected Pulp?
When a pulp is infected, it tends to swell. This causes it to push against the hard outer casing of your tooth. Because the pulp is connected to your nerves, it can lead to pain, discomfort, and sensitivity. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the rest of your teeth and gums. An infected pulp could even lead to the need for tooth extraction.
Removing the Infection
During a root canal appointment, your dentist will work to carefully extract the infected pulp. To do this, they’ll need to drill a small hole in your tooth. They then use special extraction tools to cut out the pulp and remove it. For most patients, this provides immediate relief from pain and sensitivity.
Restoration
After the pulp is removed, you’ll need to restore your tooth to prevent further damage. If left as is, the hole used for extraction could increase the chance of developing decay. In most cases, your dentist will recommend scheduling a dental crown appointment as soon as possible to help protect your tooth.
If you have sharp pain or extreme sensitivity, an infected pulp could be the culprit. At Lochwood Family Dental, we can provide routine root canal procedures right from the comfort of our Dallas, TX, office. We also provide dental crowns, helping you get the treatment you need, all in one convenient location. Call us today at 214-544-9633 to schedule a consultation and learn more about root canals.